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Ethnic identity, resilience, and well-being: a study of female Maasai migrants

Author

Listed:
  • Ashley Jowell

    (Stanford University)

  • Sharon Wulfovich

    (Stanford University)

  • Sianga Kuyan

    (Future Warriors Project)

  • Catherine Heaney

    (Stanford University)

Abstract

Objectives Migration is an increasingly prevalent worldwide phenomenon. In recent years, Maasai men and women have migrated from their traditional rural villages to cities in Tanzania in growing numbers. This study explores the experience of rural-to-urban migration among female Maasai migrants and how this experience affects ethnic identity, resilience, and well-being. Methods Thirty-one female Maasai migrants were interviewed in Swahili, Maa, or English. Researchers used a rigorous multi-pass, qualitative coding process to analyze interview transcripts. Results Migration-driving factors, specifically a desire for education (leading to permanent migrants) and a need to support one’s family (resulting in circular migrants), influence how Maasai women adapt and respond to challenges in the city. Circular migrants hold closely to their traditional ethnic identity and remain isolated from city life, while permanent migrants modulate their ethnic identity and integrate into urban society. Conclusions Increasing connections among female Maasai migrants might create a more resilient community leading to improved health. Pilot workshops with this aim are being implemented.

Suggested Citation

  • Ashley Jowell & Sharon Wulfovich & Sianga Kuyan & Catherine Heaney, 2018. "Ethnic identity, resilience, and well-being: a study of female Maasai migrants," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 63(6), pages 703-711, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ijphth:v:63:y:2018:i:6:d:10.1007_s00038-018-1124-4
    DOI: 10.1007/s00038-018-1124-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. United Nations (UN), 2016. "International Migration and Development," Working Papers id:11048, eSocialSciences.
    2. Alexandra K. Heaney & Sandra J. Winter, 2016. "Climate-driven migration: an exploratory case study of Maasai health perceptions and help-seeking behaviors," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 61(6), pages 641-649, July.
    3. Brown, T.M. & Cueto, M. & Fee, E., 2006. "The World Health Organization and the transition from international to global public health," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 96(1), pages 62-72.
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